Databases with text summaries of audio-visual material
Posted by Celia Walter | 6 Nov, 2007There are many databases out there that don’t provide actual audio or video content but do offer text summaries of the material. These rundowns often contain just what you need (without hearing or seeing the actual audio/video) and can also be very useful in placing events in time.
One database that we’ve yet to mention on ResourceShelf is the BBC Prorgamme Catalogue (Beta)...
+ Reuters Television News Video Rundowns
These pages are constantly refreshed. In some cases with the complete text script of the story.
+ Television News Archive
All major U.S. network newscasts and more back to 1968. Lots of excellent metadata. Video can be requested for a fee from the archive. The legendary Marshall Breeding is the leader of this project.
+ Newsfilm Online
UK university project digitising ITN and Reuters content. The “samples” listed by category on the home page are accessible to all users today.
+ Getty Images Video Footage
This database includes the
+ AP Archive
+ Dick Clark Productions
+ Universal Studios
+ Warner Brothers Entertainment
+ WireImage Video
+ FOOTAGE.net
Material from CNN ImageSource, NBC News Archives, ESPN/ABC Sports, ABC News and several others.
+ C-SPAN Archives
Powerful search interface. Some content free, other content can be ordered for a fee.
In terms of “historic” streamingvideo available online take a look at the WONDERFUL and VERY inexpensive NewsPlayer (browse by features and dates)
Also, the top-notch Digital Archive of Pathe Newsreels from the UK is also another must.
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